The new, third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS is expected to arrive in South Africa shortly, but we can bring you pricing for the swoopy sedan a little early.

At launch, the new CLS range of four-door saloons will comprise just a pair of derivatives: the CLS400d and the Mercedes-AMG CLS53 (the latter pictured below).

The CLS400d employs a 2,9-litre inline-six turbodiesel worth 250 kW and a stonking 700 N.m. This variant will be priced at R1 189 900, before CO2 emissions tax.

And Affalterbach’s all-wheel-drive CLS53? Well, the mild-hybrid flagship model (no, a V8-powered CLS63 is not on the cards) makes use of a six-cylinder inline petrol unit generating 320 kW and 520 N.m, while its so-called “EQ Boost” starter-alternator “momentarily” adds 16 kW and 250 N.m.

That’s enough, says the automaker, for a zero to 100 km/h time of 4,5 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (or 20 km/h higher with the driver’s package specified). Combined fuel consumption for this model comes in at a claimed 8,4 L/100 km. The CLS53 will start at R1 491 600, again before CO2 tax.

Inside the new Mercedes-Benz CLS, you’ll find illuminated air vents and an optional high-resolution widescreen cockpit display, featuring two 12,3-inch screens arranged beneath a shared, continuous glass cover. Mercedes says the seats were designed exclusively for the CLS, with the outer perches in the rear (the CLS is now a five-seater, thanks to the addition of a small centre seat in the rear) bearing the same appearance as those in the front. Luggage capacity is a claimed 520 litres.

Ryan has spent most of his career in online media, writing about everything from sport to politics and other forms of crime. But his true passion – reignited by a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 still tucked lifeless in a dark corner of his garage – is of the automotive variety.